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This holiday salad is a colorful blend of mixed greens, shaved Brussels sprouts, roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, pomegranate arils, candied pecans, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed with a quick homemade vinaigrette. It’s easy to make, festive, and the perfect addition to any holiday table!
I love vibrant salads any time of year, but during the holidays they feel especially important. As a nutritionist, I know how easy it is to skip vegetables during festive meals. This salad packs in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats so you can enjoy the season while keeping balanced.
Although I love my Winter Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette and Apple Slaw, this holiday salad gives all the Christmas vibes!! Crispy kale and shaved Brussels sprouts form a crunchy base, while sweet pomegranate and apples add bursts of flavor. Roasted butternut squash brings warmth, and pecans with goat cheese add the indulgent touch we love for special occasions. The dressing is simple and comes together in seconds.
For a hearty, grain-packed option with similar fall flavors, try my Roasted Fall Farro Salad with Maple Vinaigrette. It is full of roasted vegetables, pecans, and a cozy maple dressing perfect for the season.
How to Make the Holiday Salad
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cube the butternut squash, toss with a little oil, and roast for 10-15 minutes until golden and tender.
- In a large bowl, massage kale with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt for 2-3 minutes to soften.
- Shave Brussels sprouts thinly and toss with kale.
- Add apples, roasted squash, pomegranate, and candied pecans. Toss gently.
- Sprinkle goat cheese over the top and drizzle with vinaigrette. Give one final toss and serve!
What You Will Love About This Salad
- Festive colors perfect for the holiday table
- A balance of sweet, tart, crunchy, and creamy textures
- Fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats in every bite
- Easy to make and easy to impress!
Tips for Making Ahead
- Keep dressing and goat cheese separate until serving to maintain crispness.
- Kale holds up well with other ingredients, so prep the veggies earlier in the day if needed.
- Leftovers are best eaten within 24 hours unless kept separate from dressing and cheese.
Serving
This salad serves beautifully as a side for 6-8 people, making it perfect for holiday dinners or festive gatherings. You can also enjoy it as a light main dish for 2-3 people with a little extra protein, like grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or tempeh.
Plan a Stress-Free Thanksgiving
This festive salad is a colorful addition to your table, but preparing the full holiday meal can feel overwhelming. Grab my free Thanksgiving Planning Guide for tips, prep ideas, and everything you need to enjoy a delicious, stress-free holiday.
Holiday Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1.5 cups diced butternut squash, , cut into small squares (less than 1 inch)
- 6 oz shredded kale*
- 1 – 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 oz shredded brussels sprouts
- 2 medium apples, , diced
- 3/4 cup pomegranate arils, (~1 medium pomegranate)
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 4 oz goat cheese
For the Vinaigrette:
- 1/2 cup olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp real maple syrup
- pinch of sea salt
- pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Lightly brush the butternut squash with oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Place on a sheet pan and roast for 12 – 15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Meanwhile, make the rest of the salad. Place the kale in a large bowl and sprinkle with lemon juice. Gently massage to soften for 2 – 3 minutes. Top with shredded Brussels sprouts and toss.
- Now add in diced apples, pomegranate arils, pecans, and butternut squash once it's ready.
- Make the dressing by combining all ingredients in a jar or container with a lid. Shake until well combined. Pour on the salad and continue to toss.
- Finally, stir in the goat cheese and gently toss one more time before serving.
One word: Amazing. My new favorite salad. I hope it’s okay for me to eat this every week because I love it so much!!!